Cavity Definition, Reason, Symptoms, Treatment & Prevention
Understanding
Cavity are damage to the hard tissue of the teeth, due to caries which cannot be prevented. Caries is formed by bacteria that cause a black color.
Tooth decay that occurs can spread to the bottom layer of the enamel, namely the dentin. Even if it is badly damaged, a hole can also penetrate the pulp chamber. The pulp chamber is a cavity filled with nerves and blood vessels. If there is damage, it can cause death to the tooth.
Cavities are the most common complaint found in the oral cavity. Cavities can strike anyone regardless of social status, both children, adolescents and adults.
Symptom
There are symptoms that indicate cavities, namely:
- Pain when biting or chewing certain foods
- Presence of spontaneous pain even in the absence of stimulation
- Teeth hurt when drinking cold water
- Food often gets stuck
- There is bad breath
- Black tooth surface
Reason
The bacteria that cause cavities are Streptococcus mutans and Lactobacillus. In addition, a poor diet, such as frequently consuming sweet, sour or fizzy foods or drinks without maintaining good and regular oral hygiene will cause cavities in the teeth.
Not only that, cavities which, if left alone, can cause other complaints. Starting from pain, infection and even tooth loss.
Diagnosis
Determination of the diagnosis of cavities is determined through interviews and clinical examination. A dental examination was carried out using a mouth mirror, sonde and excavator.
Holes that are already large can be directly observed with the eye. However, a supporting examination is needed in the form of an X-ray to see the depth of the caries. In addition, by blowing air and tapping gently using dental instruments on a suspected surface, it can detect the early stages of cavities in the teeth.
Treatment
Treatment for cavities depends on the severity. There are several ways to treat it, namely:
-
Patching
If the tooth cavity is still small and not deep, then fillings can be done immediately.
If the tooth cavity is large and deep – until it reaches the root canal, the dentist will first perform root canal treatment. You do this by removing the decaying nerve tissue and blood vessels.
When the root canal has been cleaned of rotten nerve tissue and blood vessels, the canal will then be filled with medicine. After that the tooth will be patched. Or you can also make restorations or crowns on it.
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Crown Making
If the tooth decay is so severe that it leaves little remaining crown, treatment can be done by making a dental crown.
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Repeal
Repeal is the last step that can be done. This is usually needed if the cavities are too severe so that other treatments cannot be done.
Prevention
To prevent teeth from cavities, do the following:
- Brush your teeth twice a day using toothpaste that contains fluoride.
- Use the technique of brushing your teeth the right way.
- Don’t forget to clean your teeth every day using dental floss. Avoid using toothpicks.
- Consult your dentist for additional fluoride treatments.
- Eat a nutritious and balanced diet.
- Reduce intake of snacks that contain high sugar.
- Reduce carbonated or acidic foods or drinks.
- Drink lots of water.
- Make regular visits to the doctor at least once every six months.